Franklin Reunion Party! Wow! On the evening of May 21, 2009, a sizable crowd (250-300) of Franklin Alums gathered in the Franklin Auditorium. The excitement was high and the place was crackling with smiles, laughter, chatter, and reconnections. All the silence that was squelched by teachers years ago, was suddenly unleashed here with decibel force. Featured entertainment included the Tapping Grandmas, a Waltz danced by Don Miller and Rowena, a Franklin Video, and Student Led Tours. We heard some fabulous speeches by Bob Mosher, Diane Wynne, William Counsell, Mickey Hanson, Brian Shute, and an open letter from the Honorable Dirk Kempthorne. For dessert, there were Cyrus O'Leary Pies, cookies, coffee, and Lemonade. All of it was a joyful, reminiscent, and festive time. The very best part for me (Brian) was meeting and talking with many of you. What an honor! Some of you even provided me with more historical photographs and stories... and Franklin and I thank you. Here are some shots of the evening. Principal Mickey Hanson welcomes the group and reads an open letter from the Honorable Dirk Kempthorne. This clever group of smiling grandmas were fun, energetic, and full of taps. The Franklin crowd loved them! One of the tappers, Mary Mills, is a Franklin alum. ____________ And here is a shot of Don Miller (Franklin 1939) and Rowena as they dance the Waltz. These talented folks gave us a taste of traditional dancing that was elegant and superb! ___________ This is teacher Nancy Gaudet (Danielson) and her daughter, Tammy. Nancy taught at Franklin in the 1950s and was a popular mentor. I have personally met with many alumni who have expressed their appreciation for the teacher. In fact, in her speech, Diane Wynne expressed that Nancy was the reason she became a teacher! When asked about the red, sporty MG, we found out that it was sold in the 70s to make way for her son's drum set. The garage was cramped. Nancy's daughter is an English teacher at the high school level. It's in the blood! __________ This is Camille Haskins (Erickson), Steve Erickson, Mrs. Olson (mom of Karen Ruth (Olson), Dianne Blumhagen, Jim Wynne (1960), and Diane Wynne (1962). __________ Alumni Cory Davis (left) and Dale Raschko, along with Franklin mom, Diane Davis smile for the camera. __________ Dean Carriveau (left), Dianne Blumhagen (right) and some Franklin friends Don Miller, Rowena, Lloyd and Shirley Seahorn Mr. and Mrs. William Counsell Bob Mosher recounted some insightful Franklin memories! And some more terrific memories from Diane Wynne's Franklin experience. Bill Counsell recalled when 17th was being paved. There were piles of headless rattle snakes piled at the street corners for pick up the next day. The paving crew killed the snakes with their shovel as they came across the nests. __________